Skill training programme encourages self-employment among Wokha youth

Morung Express News
Wokha | April 7

The Department of Employment, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship organised the valedictory programme of a seven-day basic steel fabrication training under the “PACES – Providing Access to Core Employability Skills” initiative at the Community Hall, Wokha Village, on April 7. MLA Y. Mhonbemo Humtsoe attended the programme as the special guest.

The training programme, which aimed to equip local youth with practical and income-generating skills, saw the participation of 25 trainees from Humtso, Elumyo and Wokha Village.

Addressing the gathering, Humtsoe underscored the need for youth to shift focus from conventional dependence on government employment to skill-based livelihoods. He noted that government jobs have become increasingly saturated and encouraged the trainees to pursue self-employment with confidence and dignity.

He further emphasised the importance of teamwork and collective growth, urging participants to move beyond individualistic approaches and instead work together towards shared goals. According to him, collaborative efforts, backed by discipline and commitment, are more likely to lead to sustainable success.

Encouraging the trainees to remain consistent, he stated that even small beginnings could develop into viable enterprises. He expressed optimism that the skills acquired would not only help the trainees become self-reliant but also enable them to generate employment opportunities for others.

The MLA also appealed to officials and counsellors to identify genuinely interested and deserving unemployed youth who are unable to access such programmes, assuring continued support in expanding such initiatives.

Speaking on behalf of the training partner, CEO of Zynorique Initiative Society, Richard Belho informed that the programme was initiated through the efforts of the MLA and formed part of a limited training covering 100 participants. He highlighted the growing income potential in the construction sector and encouraged trainees to utilise the skills effectively, adding that advanced-level training with improved machinery may be introduced in the future.

Additional Director of the department, Zubemo Lotha Tsanglao, stated that Nagaland had received 100 training slots across four districts. He noted that the “mobile skill morung” concept, introduced by the department, has gained recognition at the national level. He also commended the trainees, particularly highlighting the exceptional performance and innovative approach of the lone female participant.

Sharing their experiences, trainees described the programme as insightful and beneficial, stating that the hands-on training enhanced their practical knowledge and confidence in handling tools. The lone female trainee remarked that although she initially found steel fabrication challenging, the training helped her realise the importance of patience and attentiveness in mastering the skill.

The programme concluded with the distribution of tools and certificates to the trainees.